About the Program
The Grand Rapids Chamber believes we have it within ourselves to create a community of uncommon greatness. To foster the further development of community trustees, we offer the Leadership Grand Rapids program.
Each year, a class of leaders is accepted into the program to take part in an intensive community and professional leadership program founded on these principles:
- Community Connections
- Leadership Skills
- Diversity
- Systems Thinking
What it looks like: Through monthly, full-day sessions focusing on key community issues and topics, participants have a chance to deepen their understanding of our community and develop the broad and inclusive mindset needed for community stewardship from a systems perspective.
The Goal: To create a network of community trustees who act on the need, the desire, and the ambition to work for the common good and serve the primary needs of others by holding our community in trust. Ultimately, we’ll drive systems-level change to create a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for all.
Program Details
The Leadership Grand Rapids program has capacity for 40 diverse individuals who:
- Are a strong leader in their organization and/or community
- Are motivated and interested in learning, self-discovery, community engagement, peer connections; and how to use this experience to build on their community trusteeship to work for the common good and serve the primary needs of others.
- Represent a cross-section of business, non-profits, and units of government, professions, ages, cultural perspectives, ethnic backgrounds, and geographical areas throughout the Grand Rapids community
- Willing to commit to being on time and engaged in all LGR day sessions and assigned pre-work
Our team intentionally creates a safe and welcoming space where all voices are heard and valued. We encourage open dialogue, active listening, and mutual respect among all participants. Our programs are designed to promote collaboration and understanding, recognizing that diverse perspectives lead to a stronger community for all.
